News from the Centre

Small Producers Scheme - update

Work is progressing to develop a scheme that enables small producers to work together to access government support for which they would not be eligible for as individuals. Helping producers under 3 ha to get into Glastir Organic is a major focus, but the study will also look at the issue in the context of other schemes such as other elements of Glastir, sustainable production grants, training and advice and the Basic Payment Scheme.

As part of the scoping study, interviews have taken place with all the organic control bodies, and discussions have centred around the potential for group certification and the opportunities to reduce inspection and certification costs arising from proposed amendments to the EU regulation that are currently under discussion. Talks will take place with Welsh Government and Rural payment Wales about the practicalities of changing their systems to enable several small producers to work under one Glastir Organic agreement, and lessons will be sought from other elements of Glastir (e.g. the Commons) and other cooperative models.In addition there will be a need to talk to producers.

Producers who have less than 5 ha should have received an email requesting them to fill in this on-line survey. If this hasn't already been done, please complete it. It really is a 5 minute job, and it will make sure that further discussions are relevant and focused.
For more information regarding this topic please contact
E-mail: jll At aber dot ac dot uk 01970 621632.